The tax benefits refer to the tax deductions from mortgage interest and property tax.The returns mainly rely on appreciation, and the cash flow only improves in the last few years, also depending on securing the 5% refinance rate.I've learned a lot from this forum, but as I start to operate on my own, I'm still not completely confident.

Here are some financing options to consider:HELOC or Cash-Out Refi on Another Property – If you or your mom have equity elsewhere, this could be a more flexible and lower-interest option.Business Line of Credit – Since the property is in an LLC, you might qualify for a business LOC, which could cover construction costs.Private Money Lender – If you’re okay with 12-15% rates, a private lender could fund this as a short-term loan, especially if the guesthouse will generate strong income.Construction Loan – Some lenders offer short-term construction financing, which converts to a longer-term mortgage once completed.Seller/Partner Financing – Bringing in an investor or structuring a joint venture with someone willing to fund the build in exchange for a share of the income.Credit Card Stacking or Unsecured Business Loans – Riskier but could work if you need to bridge a gap until the unit starts cash flowing.Would love to hear more details—especially your timeline and expected rental income.

When I first started out, I was insuring everything with USAA.

Hey AudreyHere's a list of things you should look for in your investment properties...Start by assessing the property’s curb appeal and exterior condition, checking the roof for damage and foundation for cracks or moisture.

It’s a beautiful old house and would be a real gem if it was restored, but I don’t have the funds or a credit score good enough to get a loan that big (without an insane amount of interest tacked on).I’m hoping to turn someone on to it who loves restoring old properties, or start investing in a group that does and tell them about my house and invest as a team.

Not nearly as far as it did when I got started... ugh I hate that I am now old enough to say such a thing.

I will add that you definitely do not need to be near your investments, but it makes things a lot easier when you first start off. 

Minimum loan amounts vary, but the product we work with most often starts at $500,000.

So, if you start with a duplex, your next purchase could be a triplex or fourplex.

These guru courses are almost always started by people who are, themselves, trying to get into the syndication business.